Water quality issues discussed at meeting in Rathgormack 

Recently, the Local Authority Waters Programme (LAWPRO) held their quarterly meeting of the South East Regional Operational Committee on Water Quality in Rathgormack Community Centre, Co. Waterford.

Almost 70 people attended, where various issues impacting locals were discussed. 

Issues of concern which arose at the meeting included the protection of bathing and shellfish waters and public health along the Waterford coastline, agriculture across the region and actions that Uisce Éireann are undertaking to protect water quality.

Uisce Eireann also gave an update on planned upgrades at the Clonea Power wastewater treatment plant and easement of fish passage further downstream.

Representatives from National Parks and Wildlife, Waterford City and County Council and LAWPRO gave an account of the current conditions of the rivers and the upland habitats and representatives from a range of agencies then came together to see where they can access resources and find synergies to improve the situation.

Speaking at the meeting, Marina Mulligan, Biodiversity Officer noted: “The area is highly sensitive to changes in habitat quality resulting from land use change and increasing tourism. Recent WCCC surveys for the Comeragh Mountains Outdoor Recreation Strategy highlighted erosion of peatland habitats along several trails.

“This underscores the need for greater public awareness and action to decrease the human impacts on blanket bog and heathlands, including introduction of invasive species and disturbance to upland birds.

“Erosion, overgrazing and siltation of rivers in the Comeragh Mountains SAC and the surrounding biodiverse habitats threaten protected wildlife like Hen Harrier."

Climate action was another key discussion at the meeting.

Climate Action Officer with Waterford Council, Cian Gill said: “Waterford’s Climate Action Plan includes actions to effectively map habitats within the county, with a focus on natural habitats that function as carbon sinks. 

"Peatlands with a high-water table capture carbon dioxide, storing it as carbon in peat. Action for biodiversity gain, improvements of these habitats, and improved waterways are also effective climate action. It is of course extremely positive to engage with so many organisations looking to make improvements to our waterways and landscapes.” 

The group then took part in a field trip led by Adam James, Assistant Scientist with Waterford City and County Council along the River Glasha, starting at the Slate Quarry at Glenpatrick Bridge.

Adam explained how inter-agency collaboration and working with the farming community was imperative to reduce the risk of pollution to water quality.